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Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Philippine Military Academy, Baguio City

On our recent Christmas Holiday at the City of Pines, we
visited Philippine Military Academy at Fort Gregorio Del Pilar, Loakan, Baguio City.

Becoming an officer in our Armed Forces by studying at PMA was
one of my ardent dreams during my high school days; several of my classmates
tried their best but it seemed they weren’t lucky as well. In my case, since I
am wearing spectacles as early as my elementary days I knew my chance of
getting selected was nil so I ended up as an OFW like my father.

Because of this, a few days before our trip, I was quite
excited in stepping foot inside PMA. In addition, I would be breaking-in our
newly bought family SUV thus doubling the thrill of our yearly family road trip.

Long story short, we drove to PMA from our hotel beside Burnham Park; the
place is approximately 10 kilometers outside the city proper. We followed the
Loakan Airport road passing Camp John Hay, Texas Instrument compound and
several residential areas. You need to drive carefully since there were several
blind curves sloping downwards. The view going to PMA is truly mesmerizing for
city dwellers like us; pine trees lined our left side and mountain views on the
other side. It took us more than 30 minutes to reach the place.

Prior to entering, you have to leave a valid government ID at
the gate and the best thing is, admission is free.

We stopped for a while to
have some photo-ops with old tanks and armoured personnel carriers. A couple of
Howitzers were also on display.

Soon afterwards, we drove to the main building; from here we
trekked to some souvenirs shops and small eateries. Along the way, we met
cadets having their morning jog. I got a strange feeling seeing our future
military officers running on their short.

We strolled around the area and had some picture moments
among Philippine Air force and Navy’s vintage hardware.

Within the area, the view of the mountain ranges is truly
awesome. Likewise, we saw the most famous tree-top “bahay kubo” in Baguio
filled with kids.

A hundred meters away is the famous parade ground where the yearly
graduation rite is being held. We didn’t bother to explore the vast parade ground
since the wife was a bit tired.

By the way, you have to pay before you can use the smelly
toilets.

All told, PMA is an ideal place to visit especially for car
owners. Your family or group can have quiet and solemn moments while savouring
the magnificent view of the mountains that can rival Mines View Park without the
rude crowds and vendors. If you will visit this place using public transport
you may find it inconvenient to roam inside PMA compound by foot.

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Who is this guy?

This family man who used to work in a remote area somewhere in Middle East wandered during his monthly vacation to avoid losing his job a few years back. Time has come for him to go home.
During his wandering, he has become part time travel blogger and foodie but remained full time Dad.
After his wandering, he tried road tripping as well and nurturing his newfound baby, Happy Stripes.
Update, this guy is now working in central Africa and admiring it's beauty, people and culture.